Birds seen eating patients' meals in Malaysian hospital spark concern online
A Malaysian hospital has responded after videos showing pigeons and crows inside a ward eating food from patients' meal trays circulated online, prompting concerns about hygiene and patient safety.
MALAYSIA: Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah (HTAR) in Klang has responded after videos showing birds entering a hospital ward and eating from patients' meal trays circulated widely on social media.
The footage, which was initially shared through WhatsApp before spreading on Threads and other platforms, appeared to show pigeons and crows moving freely around a ward area and feeding from food trays intended for patients.
The videos quickly attracted attention online, with many users expressing concern about hygiene standards and the potential impact on patients recovering in the ward.
Public questions hygiene and patient safety
Much of the online discussion centred on health and cleanliness concerns.
Several users claimed the birds were leaving droppings around the ward area, raising fears about contamination and patient welfare.
Others pointed to feather dust and airborne particles that could potentially affect vulnerable patients, particularly those recovering from illness.
Some social media users tagged Malaysia's Ministry of Health and government officials, calling for immediate action to address the issue.
Others expressed disappointment that such conditions were being reported in a public healthcare facility, with some saying the situation reflected poorly on the country's healthcare system.
A number of commenters argued that while Malaysia's public healthcare system is heavily subsidised and affordable, patients should still be entitled to clean, safe and dignified treatment environments.
They said individuals seeking medical care should not have to share recovery spaces with birds.
Hospital says measures already in place
In a statement published on Facebook on 8 June, HTAR acknowledged the viral video and said the presence of birds was linked to the hospital's surroundings.
According to the hospital, pigeons and crows have made the trees around the hospital grounds their habitat, creating the possibility that birds may occasionally enter hospital buildings unintentionally.
HTAR said it has already implemented regular control measures, including tree pruning carried out by its concession company and ongoing monitoring of wards and hospital buildings.
The hospital added that it is also working with local authorities to strengthen efforts aimed at reducing bird-related disturbances around the facility.
Commitment to safe environment
HTAR said it takes the matter seriously and remains committed to maintaining a safe, clean and conducive environment for patients, visitors and healthcare workers.
The hospital said appropriate measures would continue to be implemented from time to time to reduce the risk of similar incidents occurring in the future.
It did not specify when the videos were recorded or whether any patients had been directly affected by the incident.
